Feuerzangenbowle (Mulled Wine)

When you visit Germany in the cold months you might come across a drink called Feuerzangenbowle – sometimes referred to as Crambambuli. The cult status this beverage has achieved over the past few decades is in part owed to its warming and intoxicating effects, and in part to the movie named after it. Most often served near the Christmas holiday season.

Put the kettle in the middle of your table so all your guests can watch the ceremony.

You normally use a "Feuerzange", but as I supect this might be hard to get outside Europe. I guess you can also use a grid from your barbecue set - especially the ones you normally use to barbecue herrings in should work pretty well.

The point is that you should be able to put the sugar hat on it (lying on its side) and place the whole thing safely over the kettle.

Once you've got that far, you're ready for the ceremony.

First, dim your lights.

Then pour some rum onto the sugar hat, best using a ladle, and light it (this is why the rum has to be at least 108 proof).

Keep the flames burning by ladeling more rum on the sugar hat, until the sugar has completely melted and dripped into the wine.

Remove the "Feuerzange" and the bag with the spices.

Serve in heat-proof glasses.

Variation: Many people like to add sugar and/or a little orange juice (preferably freshly pressed).

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